June 20, 2017: Back From Origins!

While SJ Games didn't have an official booth at Origins Game Fair this past weekend, we did send one intrepid explorer out to meet the press, get the lay of the land, and enjoy scenic Columbus, OH. That individual was myself! This was my first Origins ever, and it was a whirlwind of activity.

You may have seen me on the BoardGameGeek live stream, talking about the upcoming releases Munchkin Shakespeare Deluxe and Port Royal. Forrest Bower also took a look at Port Royal, as well as Muertoons, coming later this year. Look for more content like this coming out in the weeks after the convention from these creators, as well as others like Through Gamer Goggles, GeekDad/GeekMom, and more! 

I was also able to play some very fun and unique games from fellow publishers in the industry. Codenames Duet, a two-player cooperative version of the classic word game from CGE, is looking to be another smash hit. Spinderella, from Zoch Verlag, is an adorable game of spiders that descend from the trees using magnets! Hotshots, coming later this year and produced by our friends at Fireside Games, is a tense cooperative game. We were able to put out all the wildfires at the last minute! As a racing-game fan, Restoration Games' Downforce, a game about racing and betting, has me intrigued, as well. 

On a personal note, I want to thank everyone who took the time to sit down with me, do an interview, play a game, or just hang out. Special thanks to Adventure Retail, who had an immense SJ Games section, and to Nerd Night, who gave away some of the Munchkin Messenger Bags for charity! This was one of the most enjoyable conventions I've ever attended, and I hope I can make it back next year. 

-- Hunter Shelburne